Robert Rosen

Robert Rosen brings thirty years of executive-level experience in the philanthropic, government, and corporate sectors. He has worked directly with the most pre-eminent philanthropic families across the globe as a trusted advisor.

From May 2014 until July 2024, Rosen served as the Head of Philanthropic Partnerships at the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. In this capacity, he worked directly with Bill Gates, Melinda Gates, and Warren Buffett to build and operate the Giving Pledge, a learning and engagement network built to advance the philanthropy of the world’s highest capacity donors. He oversaw a team of 35 staff and directed a grantmaking budget of $45 million per year. In addition, his team launched a number of initiatives to support philanthropy across the globe, including the Giving Tuesday movement, the collaborative fund marketplace, and the Philanthropy Asia Alliance.

From 2010-2014, Rosen served as Head of the Executive Office at the Gates Foundation, where he led the team responsible for strategic support and planning for Co-Chairs Bill and Melinda Gates, Bill Gates, Sr. and Foundation CEO Jeff Raikes. His team also directed special initiatives and personal (family-interest) grants for the Gateses. Earlier in his tenure at the Gates Foundation Rosen served as Director of Communications and Interim Chief Communications Officer.

From 2005-2007, Rosen served as Senior Director of the Finance Division at the Corporate Executive Board (now Gartner). He advised CFOs and other senior finance leaders of the world’s leading corporations on best practices and operational efficiencies.

Earlier in his career Rosen served in senior leadership roles in federal government and electoral campaigns. From 2003-2005 Rosen served as Political Director for Senator Edward (Ted) Kennedy. As chief political strategist for Senator Kennedy, he served as primary liaison for all legislative and political initiatives and developed and implemented strategy for all political activities including the 2004 Presidential Campaign and Democratic National Convention in Boston.

Prior to that Rosen served in the White House, Executive Office of the President as Assistant to the President and Director of Advance. He oversaw the planning and execution of public and private engagements for the President and First Lady across the United States and around the world. As member of the White House Senior Staff was a key participant in shaping and guiding public and diplomatic communications strategies.

Rosen holds degrees from Cornell Law School and University of Vermont with honors and was the President of the Student Government Association at UVM. He currently serves on the Advisory Boards of the Clinton School of Public Service, the Accelerate India Philanthropy, the Hong Kong Academy for Wealth Legacy, and serves as the Board Chair of the Alpental Snoqualmie Foundation. He lives in Seattle with his wife and three children, and their beloved springer spaniel.